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The duties of an assistant audio engineer vary depending on the recording studio. In many studios, an assistant audio engineer starts out as a low-level employee, running errands, cleaning up and helping in any way possible. Over time and with increased experience, the assistant audio engineer gradually transitions into being an apprentice to the recording engineer.

Setting Up

Assistant audio engineers often prepare for a recording or mixing session by setting up previously recorded audio tracks in line with the recording engineer’s preferences. For example, the recording engineer might want the recorded audio tracks organized, labeled by instrument and ready for immediate playback. Preparing for a session requires an in-depth understanding of the audio mixing console. Some studios rely on hardware mixers, while others use computer programs called digital audio workstations, or DAWs. Assistant audio engineers must be familiar with the basic operation procedures of the specific audio mixing console, as well as the personal preferences of the lead recording engineer.

Microphones

Setting up microphones is another duty of the assistant audio engineer. It starts with choosing the right microphone for each instrument. The assistant audio engineer must then place the microphone in a position that captures the best performance sound. For example, a room microphone might be elevated in a central location to capture all the musicians simultaneously, as well as the overall ambiance of the room. Setting up microphones close to performers isolates the sounds on separate tracks. After the microphones are set up, the assistant audio engineer connects each one to the audio mixing console with microphone cables and then tests the microphone levels to ensure there is no distortion or hiss.

Session Duties

Throughout the recording or mixing session, the assistant audio engineer helps set up and troubleshoot audio equipment. For example, if the recording engineer doesn’t like the way a microphone is capturing a vocal performance, the assistant audio engineer might alter the setup by swapping in a new microphone or finding a better microphone position. Other duties might include fixing faulty equipment, identifying bad cables and helping musicians prepare their instruments for recording.

Skills Development

Sooner or later, the assistant audio engineer will get a chance to lead a recording session. For example, if the recording engineer falls ill, the assistant might temporarily fill in. Assistant audio engineers often moonlight as well, honing their recording skills with side projects. With hard work and patience, assistant audio engineers gain enough training and experience to become lead recording engineers and hire assistants of their own.

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About the Author

Stan Mack is a business writer specializing in finance, business ethics and human resources. His work has appeared in the online editions of the "Houston Chronicle" and "USA Today," among other outlets. Mack studied philosophy and economics at the University of Memphis.